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Understanding Natural Light for Portraits
- Monique Harmer
- 2 minute read
A Beginner’s Guide to Beautiful Lighting
Natural light is one of the most beautiful and accessible tools in a portrait photographer’s toolkit. But to truly harness its potential, you need to go beyond ‘shooting at golden hour’ and learn to read, shape, and use it creatively.
Why Understanding Natural Light Matters
Natural light changes by the hour, season, and weather. It affects mood, texture, and how your subject is perceived. Once you learn how to work with it—not just around it—you’ll gain consistency, creativity, and confidence in your portrait work.
🌤️ Types of Natural Light You’ll Encounter
– Golden Hour (Soft, warm, directional)
– Midday (Harsh, top-down, shadow-heavy)
– Open Shade (Even, cool-toned, low contrast)
– Overcast (Soft, diffused, gentle shadows)
– Window Light (Beautiful indoors, soft edge transitions)
How to Shoot Manual
Step-by-Step
1. Set ISO First – Base this on your environment.
- Outdoors? Start with ISO 100–200.
- Indoors or evening? Try 800–1600 or higher.
2. Choose Aperture Based on Creative Intent
- Portrait? Go wide (e.g., f/2.8).
- Landscape? Go narrow (e.g., f/11).
3. Adjust Shutter Speed to Balance Exposure
- Use your camera’s light meter (the bar graph in your viewfinder or screen).
- Move shutter speed until the exposure indicator is near the centre.
4. Take a Test Shot – Then refine:
- Too dark? Slow your shutter or raise ISO.
- Too bright? Faster shutter or narrower aperture.
📸 Step-by-Step: How to Use Natural Light for Better Portraits
1. Observe Before You Shoot
Spend time looking at how light falls on your subject. Walk around them. Notice where the highlights and shadows fall. Are there catchlights in the eyes? Is one side too dark or too blown out? Awareness is your first tool.
2. Choose the Right Angle
Your subject’s position relative to the light source can make or break a portrait. Try front lighting for soft, even looks; side lighting for drama and depth; and backlighting for glow and rim light effects.
3. Use Reflectors or Bounce Surfaces
Bright walls, white cards, or purpose-built reflectors can help fill shadows and create flattering light on your subject. This is especially useful in midday or open shade conditions.
4. Control with Camera Settings
Use wide apertures to create creamy bokeh and emphasise your subject. Adjust ISO and shutter speed to maintain exposure without losing highlights.
5. Embrace the Mood
Don’t be afraid of shadows or mood. Natural light gives character. Let soft, diffused light evoke calm, while strong contrast brings energy and tension. Lean into what the light offers.
✨ Pro Tips for Beautiful Natural Light Portraits
– Shoot during golden hour for soft skin tones and flattering shadows.
– Use window light with a sheer curtain for dreamy indoor portraits.
– Avoid dappled light (unless you want an artsy look).
– Always watch the eyes—light there makes a portrait come alive.
🎨 Light Is Part of the Story
Natural light isn’t just technical—it’s emotional. The softness of dawn, the crispness of morning, or the glow of sunset all bring different feelings to your photos. Learn to see light as part of your narrative.
“To photograph is to write with light. Understanding it is the first step to creating images that speak.”
📚 Related Posts You Might Like:
– How to Balance Flash with Ambient Light
– Beginner’s Guide to Posing in Portraits
– Using Reflectors Like a Pro
📩 Want More Portrait Photography Tips?
Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips, behind-the-scenes tutorials, and upcoming workshop updates. Or visit my blog for more beginner-friendly lighting guides.
PS, If you found this helpful please let me know by leaving a comment below and sharing on social.
PPS, If you are struggling with anything photography related feel free to email or message me I’d love to help out anyway I can.
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Monique Harmer
Hi, I’m a professional photographer with a passion for capturing moments that tell powerful stories—whether it’s backstage with the Australian Ballet, on assignment as a press photographer, or creating striking brand imagery. With years behind the lens and a love for both the technical and creative sides of photography, I’m here to share insights, tips, and real-world experiences to help you grow your skills and find your own visual voice. Thanks for being here—let’s create something extraordinary.
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